Simplest way to network 2 computers.

[SkyBum]

I just finished my new rig, and would like to network with my back-up PC.

Could someone point me in the right direction here. I know next to nothing about this subject and don't really know where to start looking. As far as the network goes, it will only be used as backup storage for my main PC. Ease of setup and price would be my main considerations here.

 

[polm]

2 network cards (1 in each PC) + 1 cross-over cable (connected between the 2 NICs) = one of the simplest ways to network 2 computers.

 

[0roo0roo]

how much are you transfering? if its gigs..then the new 1000mb/s nic's would be sweet. thats megabits not megabytes..so don't think its excessive or something.

 

[SkyBum]

initially, about 110 Gig. After that, very little if any.

Thanks

 

[scott0482]

like oroooroo said:

get a crossover cable.. make sure both computers have a network card.

then assign them ip addresses

192.168.0.1 and 192.168.0.2 will work fine.. put them in the same workgroup, it will make things easier. make the subnet mask 255.255.255.0

i think that's about all you need.. give them both a name.. restart them it should work.

i got my crossover cables from callcct.com you can get them from a ton of places, but there is no need to spend $20 on a belkin cable at your local store when you can get one for $5 on-line

if you need more in depth instructions on how to assign ip addresses then ask

 

[SkyBum]

Thanks, I'll be able to work more on this over the weekend.

What is a "twisted pair"? A friend told me that I would need that but couldn't elaborate much.

 

[madthumbs]

Twisted pair refers to the pairs of wires being twisted in cables like cat5,5e,6. They use twists instead of shielding to block interference. Referred to as UTP cable or Unshielded Twisted Pair. I wouldn't concern yourself too much unless you plan to build your own cables.